Band Procedures
What two things should you grab when you walk into the band room?
Your instrument and your music.
How many beats does a dotted half note get?
3
What is Mr. Desmarais's primary instrument?
Clarinet
How do we stay together and keep a steady pulse when we play?
Watch the conductor, count in our heads, quietly tap our feet, listen to the instruments around us
What infamous three note song do almost all beginners start playing?
Hot Crossed Buns
What do we do for a fire/evacuation drill?
Put instruments down, Calmly walk to the back of the building, walk down to the field and quietly take attendance.
What instrument family does the saxophone belong to?
The woodwinds
What is Mr. Desmarais's favorite book series?
Harry Potter
Describe proper playing posture
Sitting up tall and not slouched, arms and hands relaxed with no tension, eyes facing the director (not the floor!)
What is the name of the USA national anthem?
The Star-Spangled Banner
Where should a woodwind player's reed go after playing?
It should be taken OFF the mouthpiece and put in a reed holder
What dynamic level is louder than piano but softer than mezzo forte?
Mezzo piano (mp)
What college did Mr. Desmarais attend?
Keene State College
How do we play legato or slurred notes?
Constant air with no tonguing as we change the notes
6th Grade- Who wrote The Syncopated Clock?
7th/8th Grade - Who wrote Timepeice?
Leroy Anderson
Randall Standridge
How often should a brass player empty their spit valves instrument?
If it ever sounds "spitty" and in between each song during a concert.
What does "D.C." stand for in music?
Da Capo, or to go back to the top
What is the name of Mr. Desmarais's cat?
Rowena Ravenclaw (Ro Ro)
What two words describe what staccato notes should sound like?
Short and Choppy
What song is used at graduation ceremonies?
Pomp and Circumstance
How do you know when it is time to pack up your instrument?
When Mr. Desmarais says to and not a moment sooner!
When we have really high or low notes, we add extra lines to the staff. What are those lines called?
Ledger lines
What are the two main activities that Mr. Desmarais does outside of school?
Video games and Gym
How do we practice difficult sections of music?
What is Mr. Desmarais's favorite piece for concert band?
Irish Tune From County Derry by Percy Grainger